Barefoot Reflexology - Put Your Feet in Our Hands Barefoot Reflexology Contact Us Our Mission “We're very pleasured to service to the people in Boston. We're professional therapist experienced over 10-20 years. Sit Back, and Relax. Put your feet in our hands.” Click Here About our Company and Experienced Practioners Our company specializes in foot reflexology & Asian body work (Tui-Na) and chair Tui-Na. Each session includes a 15 feet soak, neck shoulder & back massage, and 45 minute roll/press/rub on your feet and low leg. Have you had your Foot Massage today? Reflexology, or zone therapy, is an alternative medicine involving the physical act of applying pressure to the feet, hands, or ears with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. Our Other Store: Sakura Reflexology Dear Friends, we are very glad to tell you we’ve extended one more store down the street whose name is: Reflexology Foot Chart: Printable Pressure Points - Disabled World Reflexology Foot Chart: Printable Pressure Points Print Published: 2009-01-25 (Rev.

2015-11-18) - Contact: Ian Langtree at Disabled World Synopsis: Reflexology foot chart you can print showing natural body healing zones or pressure areas on the soles of the feet. About Reflexology Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body. Reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872-1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body. Main Document "In the printable reflexology foot chart below, the color codes represent the various organs, or parts, of the human body." Printable reflexology foot chart showing the natural body healing zones, or pressure areas, on the soles of the feet.

Reflexology is regarded as a natural healing science and is based on a technique that applies pressure to areas of the feet. Reflexology may be among the strangest of these concepts to our western way of thinking. According to reflexologists, stress, fatigue, illness, toxins, and inactivity are harmful influences on the body that can be healed through reflexology treatment, which can be given by applying the right method of applying pressure on the right zone. How can parts of your foot correspond with organs in the rest of your body How can doing something to your feet remove toxins from your heart, liver and kidneys It may take the scientists hundreds of years to prove or disprove the claims of reflexology but if it works for you today isn't that all that matters? The list of negative side effects from reflexology is pretty much non-existent and the potential benefits are significant. A foot or feet reflexology chart shows the "reflex zones" worked by reflexologists on the soles of the feet. With foot reflexology your left foot will relate physically to the left side of your body and the right foot will relate physically to the right side of your body. Similar maps exist for the position of the reflexes on the hands and ears.

Most reflexology foot charts differ slightly from each other, but you can still use them as points of reference. In the printable reflexology foot chart below, the color codes represent the various organs, or parts, of the human body. The left foot corresponds to the left side of the human body and all organs, valves, etc. found there. The right foot corresponds to the right side of the body and all the organs found there. For example, the liver is on the right side of the body, and therefore the corresponding reflex area is on the right foot. Reflexology Chart of the Feet Reflexology foot chart showing pressure points Facts: Reflexology According to several studies, the practice of reflexology in Denmark has resulted in reduced sick leave and absenteeism (and significant economic savings for the employers). Employees have consistently reported complete or partial improvement in conditions where they sought reflexologists' help and even relief for additional problems related to stress. In one municipal district, almost one-third of the employees reported greater satisfaction with their jobs after completing six sessions with a reflexologist. Statistics: Reflexology Use Reflexology is one of the most used alternative therapies in Denmark.

A national survey from 2005 showed that 21.4% of the Danish population had used reflexology at some point in life and 6.1% had used reflexology within the previous year. A study from Norway showed that 5.6% of the Norwegian population in 2007 had used reflexology within the last 12 months. 5 Types of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) 5 Types of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Search the site By Cathy Wong, ND - Reviewed by a board-certified physician. Updated December 07, 2016 Complementary and alternative medicine comes in a broad range of forms. Here's a look at five widely practiced types of complementary and alternative medicine: 1) Natural Products According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the most commonly used complementary medicine approaches in the U.S. fall into one of two subgroups: natural products or mind-body practices.

Often sold in dietary supplement form, natural products may include herbs, probiotics , antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids , chemicals such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate (two supplements said to aid in the treatment of osteoarthritis), and a variety of other substances. In the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (or NHIS, a report conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics), researchers determined that 17.7 percent of American adults had used a dietary supplement other than vitamins and minerals in the past year. The most commonly used natural product was fish oil , an omega-3-rich substance said to protect against conditions such as heart disease. 2) Mind-Body Therapies The second category of most commonly practiced complementary medicine approaches, according to the NCCIH, mind-body therapies typically involve using specific techniques to boost the mind's capacity to influence bodily function and enhance health. Hypnotherapy is a popular type of mind-body therapy. Also known as hypnosis, it's been found to promote weight loss, alleviate back pain, and aid in smoking cessation in some scientific studies.

A self-directed practice long used to promote calm, meditation is a mind-body therapy that shows promise as an approach to achieving healthier blood pressure and sounder sleep. There's also some evidence that meditation may benefit people struggling with chronic pain. Although yoga is often practiced as a form of exercise and a means of reducing stress, it's also used as a mind-body therapy. Indeed, some research indicates that yoga may help manage conditions like anxiety, insomnia, migraines, and depression. The NCCIH notes that yoga's popularity has significantly increased in recent years, with almost twice as many U.S. adults practicing yoga in 2012 as in 2002. Other types of mind-body therapies include biofeedback , guided imagery , and music therapy . 3) Alternative Medical Systems Many proponents of complementary and alternative medicine use therapies and healing practices from alternative medical systems, such as homeopathy and naturopathic medicine . Alternative medical systems also include traditional medical systems from other countries, such as Ayurveda (a form of alternative medicine that originated in India) and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Within TCM are a number of therapies frequently used in the U.S. today, including acupuncture , acupressure , and herbal medicine.

4) Manipulative and Body-Based Methods This type of complementary and alternative medicine is based on manipulation and/or movement of one or more parts of the body. In some cases, manipulative and body-based methods involve participating in classes or individual sessions with the aim of changing your movement habits. For example, the Alexander Technique involves relearning basic movements (such as standing and sitting) in order to reduce muscle tension, while the Feldenkrais Method involves creating new patterns of movement in order to improve physical function and overall wellbeing. Other types of manipulative and body-based methods used in complementary and alternative medicine focus on applying specific treatments to address health issues. These methods include reflexology , osteopathy , and rolfing . Two of the most popular and well-researched types of manipulative and body-based methods are chiropractic and massage therapy . 5) Energy Therapies Another type of complementary and alternative medicine, energy therapies are generally based on the idea that energy fields surround and penetrate the human body. Practitioners of energy therapies often aim to manipulate biofields by applying pressure and/or placing the hands in or through these energy fields. While the existence of such energy fields has not been scientifically proven, there's some evidence that certain energy therapies may have beneficial effects.

For instance, preliminary research has shown that practicing qigong may help control chronic pain and lower blood pressure while Therapeutic Touch may help soothe osteoarthritis pain. In addition, there's some evidence that reiki may help lessen pain, promote healthy sleep, and reduce anxiety. Sources Birocco N, Guillame C, Storto S, Ritorto G, Catino C, Gir N, Balestra L, Tealdi G, Orecchia C, Vito GD, Giaretto L, Donadio M, Bertetto O, Schena M, Ciuffreda L. "The effects of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in patients attending a day oncology and infusion services unit." Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2012 Jun;29(4):290-4. Lee MS, Pittler MH, Ernst E. "External qigong for pain conditions: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials." J Pain. 2007 Nov;8(11):827-31. Lee MS, Pittler MH, Guo R, Ernst E. "Qigong for hypertension: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials." J Hypertens.

2007 Aug;25(8):1525-32. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. "What Is Complementary, Alternative or Integrative Health?" NCCIH Pub No.: D347. March 2015. Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen. Continue Reading 11 Alternative Medicines Explained | Greatist 11 Alternative Medicines Explained Pin It Tweet Text LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Get More Greatist in Your Life Few people might think to call a balneotherapist when their face breaks out or a reflexologist when asthma flares. But no matter how weird they might seem, alternative medical practices are gaining traction in the U.S. So we’ve put together a guide to some of the most popular alternative physical therapies working their way into the mainstream. Somebody Call an Energy Worker!

The Need-to-Know In general, the term “ alternative therapy ” refers to any health treatment not standard in Western medical practice. Beyond that, complementary and alternative therapies are difficult to define , largely because the field is so diverse; it encompasses practices spanning diet and exercise changes, hypnosis, chiropractic adjustment, and poking needles into a person’s skin (aka acupuncture). Technically, “alternative” treatments are used in place of conventional medicine; when used alongside standard medical practices, alternative approaches are referred to as “complementary” medicine. The field of alternative therapies is diverse: It encompasses practices spanning diet and exercise changes, hypnosis, chiropractic adjustment, and acupuncture. The benefits (or lack thereof) of alternative therapies are hotly contested. More research is needed to determine the efficacy of nearly all of these practices, but that hasn’t stopped people from engaging in them: In 2008 (the most recent valid data we could find), more than 38 percent of American adults used some form of alternative medicine. Follow along as we sort through the practices that are changing the way Americans approach medical care. Guide to Alternative & Complementary Medicines 1.

Acupressure Acupressure is similar in practice to acupuncture (see below), only no needles are involved. Practitioners use their hands, elbows, or feet to apply pressure to specific points along the body’s “meridians.” According to the theory behind acupressure , meridians are channels that carry life energy (qi or ch’i) throughout the body. The reasoning holds that illness can occur when one of these meridians is blocked or out of balance; acupressure is thought to relieve blockages so energy can flow freely again, restoring wellness. More research is needed, but pilot studies have found positive results: Acupressure might decrease nausea for chemotherapy patients and reduce anxiety in people scheduled to have surgery Acupressure for nausea: results of a pilot study . Dibble, SL, Chapman, J., Mack, KA, et al. Institute for Health and Aging, University of California. Oncology and Nursing Forum, 2000 Jan-Feb;27(1):41-7 Effect of acupressure on preoperative anxiety: a clinical trial . Valiee, S., Bassampour, SS, Nasrabadi, AN, et al.

Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing, 2012 Aug;27(4):259-66 . 2. Acupuncture Though “acupuncture” may immediately bring needles to mind, the term actually describes an array of procedures that stimulate specific points on the body. The best-known variety consists of penetrating the skin with thin needles controlled by a practitioner or electrical stimulation, and it’s currently used by millions of Americans each year. Despite its popularity, controversy over acupuncture’s efficacy abounds. Some studies find it helpful for chronic pain and depression, but evidence on all counts is mixed Acupuncture and dry-needling for low back pain . Furlan, AD, van Tulder, MW, Cherkin, DC, et al. Institute for Work & Health, Canada. Cochrane Database Systems Review, 2005 Jan 25;(1):CD001351 The effectiveness of acupuncture in treating chronic non-specific low back pain; a systematic review of the literature . Hutchinson, AJ, Ball, S., Andrews, JC, et al.

Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Research, 2012 Oct 30;7(1):36 Acupuncture for depression . Smith, CA, Hay, PP, Macpherson, H. Centre for Complementary Medicine Research, The University of Western Sydney. Cochrane Database Systems Review, 2010 Jan 20;(1):CD004046 . 3. Aromatherapy Aromatherapy uses essential oils (concentrated extracts from the roots, leaves, seeds, or blossoms of plants) to promote healing . The oils can be inhaled, massaged into the skin or (in rare cases) taken by mouth, and each has a specific purpose: Some are used to treat inflammation or infections; others are used to promote relaxation. Studies suggest aromatherapy might reduce pain, depression, and anxiety, but more research is needed to fully determine its uses and benefits The effects of aromatherapy on pain, depression, and life satisfaction of arthritis patients . Kim, MJ, Nam, ES, Paik, SI. College of Nursing, the Catholic University of Korea.

Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 2005 Feb;35(1):186-94 . 4. Ayurvedic Medicine Also known as Ayurveda, Ayurvedic medicine originated in India and has been around for thousands of years. Practitioners use a variety of techniques, including herbs, massage, and specialized diets, with the intent of balancing the body, mind, and spirit to promote overall wellness. Studies of Ayurveda are few and far between (perhaps because the practice includes such a wide variety of treatments), so it’s difficult to determine how effective it is as a treatment system (But the fact that the treatment system has persisted for so many years suggests it's got something going for it.). 5. Balneotherapy Also known as hydrotherapy, balneotherapy involves the use of water for therapeutic purposes , and it dates as far back as 1700 B.C.E. It’s based on the idea that water benefits the skin and might treat a range of conditions from acne to pain, swelling, and anxiety; practitioners use mudpacks, douches, and wraps in attempts to reap agua’s rewards.

Proponents of the therapy cite findings that water might boost people’s immune systems, though research on balneotherapy’s effectiveness remains inconclusive Effectiveness of aquatic exercise and balneotherapy: a summary of systematic reviews based on randomized controlled trials of water immersion therapies . Kamjoka, H., Tsutani, K., Okuizumi, H., et al. Faculty of Regional Environment Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture. Journal of Epidemiology, 2010;20(1):2-12. Epub 2009 Oct 31 . 6. Biofeedback Biofeedback techniques allow people to control bodily processes that normally happen involuntarily—such as heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and skin temperature—in order to improve conditions including high blood pressure, headaches, and chronic pain. Patients work with a biofeedback therapist to learn these relaxation techniques and mental exercises. In initial sessions, electrodes are attached to the skin to measure bodily states, but eventually the techniques can be practiced without a therapist or equipment. Researchers still aren’t sure how or why biofeedback works—but a lot of research suggests it does work Audiovisual biofeedback improves diaphragm motion reproducibility in MRI .

Kim, T., Pollock, S., Lee, D., et al. Radiation Physics Laboratory, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney. Medical Physics, 2012 Nov;39(11):6921-8. doi: 10.1118/1.4761866 The effect of heart rate variability biofeedback on performance psychology of basketball players . Paul, M. and Garg, K. Department of Sports Medicine and Physiotherapy, Guru Nanak Dev University, India. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, 2012 Jun;37(2):131-44 . Relaxation seems to be a key component, as most people who benefit from the practice have conditions that are caused or exacerbated by stress. 7. Chiropractic Chiropractic is pretty widely accepted in the medical community, and thus qualifies more as a “complementary” medicine than an alternative one. The practice focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, including pain in the back, neck, joints, arms, legs, and head.

The most common procedure performed by chiropractors is “spinal manipulation” (aka an “adjustment”), which involves applying controlled force (typically the chiropractor’s hands) to joints that have become “hypomobile.” The idea is that joints’ movements become restricted when surrounding tissues are injured either during a single event (tweaking a muscle during a weight-lifting session) or through repetitive stress (sitting with poor posture for extended periods). Chiropractic adjustments of the affected area are intended to restore mobility and loosen the muscles, allowing the tissues to heal and the pain to resolve. Studies of chiropractic generally affirm its efficacy, with research suggesting the practice can decrease pain and improve physical functioning . 8. Homeopathy Homeopathy functions in much the same way as a vaccine: It’s based on the principle of treating “like with like ,” meaning a substance that causes adverse reactions when taken in large doses can be used—in small amounts—to treat those same symptoms.

(This concept is sometimes used in conventional medicine, as well; for example, Ritalin is a stimulant used to treat patients with ADHD.) Homeopaths gather extensive background information on patients before prescribing a highly diluted substance, usually in liquid or tablet form, to jumpstart the body’s natural systems of healing. There’s some clinical evidence that homeopathy is more effective than placebos, though more research is needed to determine its efficacy Evidence of clinical efficacy of homeopathy. A meta-analysis of clinical trials. HMRAG. Homeopathic Medicines Research Advisory Group . Cucherat, M., Haugh, MC, Gooch M., et al. Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hospitals of Lyon and University Claude Bernard, France. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2000 Apr;56(1):27-33 . 9. Naturopathy Naturopathic medicine is premised on the healing power of nature . Naturopathic doctors are trained in both conventional and alternative medicines, and seek to understand the cause of a condition by exploring its mental, physical, and spiritual manifestations in a given patient Naturopathic physicians: holistic primary care and integrative medicine specialists . Litchy, AP.

National College of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute, Oregon. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2011 Dec;8(4):369-77 . Naturopathy typically involves a variety of treatment techniques including nutrition, behavioral changes, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and acupuncture. Because it involves so many different therapies, it’s difficult to design studies that specifically target naturopathy’s effectiveness. That said, one study that evaluated the practice for low back pain found positive results Naturopathic care for chronic low back pain: a randomized trial . Szczurko, O., Cooley, K., Busse, JW, et al. Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. PLoS One, 2007 Sep 19;2(9):e919 . 10. Reflexology Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific areas on the feet, hands, or ears. The theory is that these points correspond to different body organs and systems; pressing them is believed to positively affect these organs and a person’s overall health.

(For example, applying pressure to a spot on the arch of the foot is believed to benefit bladder function.) A person can either use reflexology on her or his self, or enlist the help of a reflexologist. Millions of people around the world use the therapy to complement conventional treatments for conditions including anxiety, cancer, diabetes, kidney function, and asthma. Some studies have found that reflexology can improve respiratory function in breast cancer patients, reduce fatigue, and improve sleep—but other studies have reached less definitive conclusions Effects of foot reflexology on fatigue, sleep and pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Lee, J., Han, M., Chung, Y., et al. Department of Nursing, Christian College of Nursing, Korea. Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing, 2011 Dec;41(6):821-33 Reflexology: an update of a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Ernst, E., Posadzki, P., Lee, MS. Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter & Plymouth. Maturitas, 2011 Feb;68(2):116-20. Epub 2010 Dec 15 . 11.

Reiki Reiki is a form of energy healing based on the idea that a “ life force energy ” flows through everyone’s body. According to this philosophy, sickness and stress are indications that life force energy is low, while energy, health, and happiness signify a strong life force. In a Reiki session , a practitioner seeks to “transfer” life energy to the client by placing their hands lightly on the client’s body or a slight distance away from the body (Reiki can also be performed long-distance). The purpose is to promote relaxation, speed healing, reduce pain, and generally improve the client’s wellbeing. For the most part, there’s no regulation for Reiki practitioners. Studies of the practice’s efficacy are varied: Some find therapeutic touch to be an effective form of treatment; some don’t Healing touch for older adults with persistent pain . Wardell, DW, Decker, SA, Engebretson, JC. School of Nursing, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Holistic Nursing Practice, 2012 Jul-Aug;26(4):194-202 Effects of reiki in clinical practice: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials .

Lee, MS, Pittler, MH, Ernst, E. Complementary Medicine Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter & Plymouth. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 2008 Jun;62(6):947-54. Epub 2008 Apr 10 . Disclaimer: The information above is only preliminary. It's always advisable to contact a medical professional before undergoing any form of conventional or alternative medical treatment. This article was read and approved by Greatist Experts Dr. Mike Reinold and Dr. Phil Page . Have you tried any of these therapies? Got any others to add? Share in the comments below, or get in touch with the author on Twitter @LauraNewc . Originally posted November, 2012, updated April 2014 What Is Reflexology and How Is It Different From Massage? Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy. Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical treatment. How Is Reflexology Different From Foot Massage?

Foot massage is similar to Swedish massage, the most common type of massage in North America. People typically use massage oil or lotion and use gentle gliding strokes all over the foot. Reflexology is quite different. While many people find reflexology relaxing, it's based on the theory that certain points on the feet correspond to certain organs and body parts and that applying pressure to the areas can promote health in the corresponding parts. There is currently no regulation of reflexology in the United States. Your health care provider may be able to recommend a therapist. You may want to choose a therapist who has been certified by the American Reflexology Certification Board and has at least 200 hours of education at a recognized institution. What is a Typical Reflexology Session Like? A typical treatment is 30 to 60 minutes long and begins with a health history form and consultation about your health and lifestyle. The reflexologist will use the information to customize the treatment. You are then asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table. Otherwise you remain fully clothed. The reflexologist will assess the feet and stimulate various points to identify areas of tenderness or tension.

Brisk movements and massage may be used to warm the hands and feet. Finger or thumb pressure is then applied to the foot using reflexology techniques. Lotion or oil may be used, and the reflexologist may also use instruments like balls, brushes, and dowels. What Does Reflexology Feel Like? Most people find reflexology, for the most part, to be very relaxing. Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone. Some areas may be tender or sore, and the reflexologist may spend extra time on these points. The soreness should decrease with pressure. If you're ticklish, not to worry. The reflexologist applies firm pressure to the feet. How Will I Feel Afterward? Most people feel calm and relaxed after a reflexology session. Occasionally, some people feel nausea, sleepiness, and mood swings. Possible Side Effects and Safety Be sure to give the reflexologist a complete and accurate health history. It's always a good idea to consult your primary care provider before trying anything new, including reflexology.

If you have foot ulcers, recent injury, foot or ankle wounds, gout, or a cardiovascular condition, reflexology may not be appropriate or safe. Reflexology may also not be right for people with diabetes, osteoarthritis (affecting the ankle or foot), circulatory problems, active infections, gallstones, kidney stones, or certain types of cancer. Pregnant women should avoid reflexology. The Takeaway Although reflexology shouldn't be used as a sole treatment for any condition, it can be a relaxing therapy for your feet with whole-body benefits. Just be sure to find a trained reflexologist and check with your health care provider to see if it's right for you. Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen. Continue Reading Creve Coeur Reflexologist - Hands Over Feet Reflexology - stress reduction Creve Coeur, MO WELCOME Welcome!

The professionals at Hands Over Feet Reflexology are pleased to welcome you to our practice. We want all of our clients to be informed decision makers and fully understand any health issues you face. That's why we've developed a web site loaded with valuable information about reflexology, internal health and stress reduction . We encourage you to visit this site whenever you have concern about your health. Our web site also provides you with background about our reflexologist, office hours, appointment procedures, maps, directions to our office in Creve Coeur and other useful information. We know how hectic life can be and are committed to making our practice convenient and accessible. And we want you to feel confident that when you choose Hands Over Feet Reflexology, you're working with professionals who are qualified, experienced and caring. Please take a few moments to look through this site to get a better feel for Hands Over Feet Reflexology's capabilities and services. We also invite you to email or call our Creve Coeur office at any time to request an appointment or ask any questions. Thank you. What is Reflexology?

Reflexology (zone therapy) is an alternative medicine, complementary, or integrated medicine method of treatment involving the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body. Click here to learn more. Preeminent cardiologist, Dr. Mehmet Oz, has repeatedly demonstrated Reflexology on the Oprah Winfrey TV Show. Dr. Oz not only demonstrated Reflexology on Oprah but also has mentioned Reflexology during successive appearances on her show. During one show Dr. Oz explained, “Every patient that I operate on at New York Presbyterian Hospital gets a Reflexology type treatment ...” Preeminent cardiologist, Dr. Mehmet Oz, has repeatedly demonstrated Reflexology on the Oprah Winfrey TV Show. Dr. Oz not only demonstrated Reflexology on Oprah but also has mentioned Reflexology during successive appearances on her show. During one show Dr. Oz explained, “Every patient that I operate on at New York Presbyterian Hospital gets a Reflexology type treatment ...”Dr. Oz on Reflexology Preeminent cardiologist, Dr.

Mehmet Oz, has repeatedly demonstrated Reflexology on the Oprah Winfrey TV Show. Dr. Oz not only demonstrated Reflexology on Oprah but also has mentioned Reflexology during successive appearances on her show. During one show Dr. Oz explained, “Every patient that I operate on at New York Presbyterian Hospital gets a Reflexology type treatment ...” Reflexology at Homestead Make a Website and List Your Business Reflexology Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving the physical act of applying pressure to the feet, hands, or ears with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on what reflexologists claim to be a system of zones and reflex areas that they say reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body. reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition. A unifying theme is the idea that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that by manipulating these one can improve health through one's qi. Reflexologists divide the body into ten equal vertical zones, five on the right and five on the left. Most people find reflexology for the most part to be very relaxing.

Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone. Why do People get Reflexology? * Stress and stress-related conditions Massage | University of Maryland Medical Center People with these conditions should avoid massage: Heart failure Kidney failure Infection of the superficial veins (called phlebitis) or soft tissue (called cellulitis) in the legs or elsewhere Blood clots in the legs Bleeding disorders Contagious skin conditions If you have cancer, check with your doctor before considering massage because massage can damage tissue that is fragile from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. People with rheumatoid arthritis, goiter (a thyroid disorder characterized by an enlarged thyroid), eczema, and other skin lesions should not receive massage therapy during flare ups. Experts also advise people with osteoporosis, high fever, few platelets or white blood cells, and mental impairment, as well as those recovering from surgery, to avoid massage. Check with your doctor. Tell your massage therapist about any medications you are taking, as massage may influence the absorption or activity of both oral and topical medications. What is the future of massage?

More research is needed to determine how effective massage therapy is, which health problems improve the most from this technique, and whether it is more cost effective than other types of treatment. Although massage is usually offered in the community by private practitioners, it is slowly being integrated into a variety of health care settings, such as hospice care facilities and hospitals. How can I find a practitioner? Certified massage therapists complete a training program of 500 or more hours, take national board exams, and are licensed or registered in many states. To find a massage therapist in your area, visit the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) website at . Although the AMTA has a listing of massage therapists who specialize in a variety of techniques, you may also use different resources to locate practitioners who specialize in the following techniques: Lymphatic massage. Massage therapists and physical therapists with at least 500 hours of massage or physical therapy training can become certified in lymphatic massage by taking a 4-week training program. To find a therapist who practices lymphatic massage, visit the North American Vodder Association of Lymphedema Therapists (NAVALT) website -- . Reflexology.

The American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) certifies reflexologists who undergo 100 hours of training and pass an exam. To find a qualified reflexologist go to . Rolfing. Rolf Institute of Structural Integration -- . Shiatsu. American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia -- . References Anderson PG, Cutshall SM. Massage therapy: a comfort intervention for cardiac surgery patients. Clin Nurse Spec. 2007;21(3):161-5; quiz 166-7. Barlow A, Clarke R, Johnson N, Seabourne B, Thomas D, Gal J. Effect of massage of the hamstring muscles on selected electromyographic characteristics of biceps femoris during sub-maximal isometric contraction. Int J Sports Med. 2007;28(3):253-6. Beider S, Mahrer N, Gold J. Pediatric Massage Therapy: An Overview for Clinicians. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2007;54(6). Bernas M, Witte M, Kriederman B, Summers P, Witte C. Massage therapy in the treatment of lymphedema.

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Question: What is the name of the alternative medicine involving applying pressure to the feet and hands?
Answer: Reflexology